Oxidation reactions that occur in the body can produce free radicals. This is very dangerous because it can cause chain reactions that can damage body cells. To prevent the danger of oxidation, antioxidants are needed.
Antioxidants are substances that function to reduce damage to body cells due to oxidation. Excessive free radicals in the body are often associated with various diseases that attack the body.
What Is Dangerous Oxidation Like?
Every day, your body constantly interacts with oxygen. This process triggers the appearance of free radicals and can cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when the amount of free radicals and the body's defenses (antioxidants) is out of balance and tends to be more free radicals.
Free radicals are molecules that are very reactive in interacting with other molecules in the cell body. Free radical activity can cause damage to cell membranes, various proteins and genes. The damage caused is called oxidative damage. If this damage occurs, then the possibility of the body at risk of various diseases.
Besides being a consistent interaction between the body and oxygen, the appearance of free radicals is also influenced by factors outside the human body. Pollution, sun exposure, industrial waste, and smoking are triggering factors for the emergence of free radicals in the body.
Danger of Excessive Oxidation in the Body
Free radicals that cause oxidative stress conditions, are thought to influence the emergence of neurodegenerative diseases (progressive diseases of the nervous system). For example Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.
In addition there are several other types of diseases that are often associated with oxidative stress, including:
- Atherosclerosis
- Heart disease
- Hypertension
- Cancer
- Diabetes
Preventing the Danger of Oxidation with Antioxidants
To prevent the danger of oxidation, then you need to meet the body's antioxidant needs. Naturally, the body already produces antioxidants. It's just that it is difficult for natural antioxidants to neutralize all free radicals in the body, especially if you have an unhealthy lifestyle. For example, often exposed to pollution, smoking or consumption of vegetables and fruits that are rich in antioxidants.
There are several types of foods that are rich in antioxidants, including fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, carrots, and oranges. In addition, sources of antioxidants include green tea, black tea and oolong tea. Apart from food, you can also get antioxidants from supplements, for example vitamin C supplements, vitamin E, and beta carotene.
Some other healthy lifestyles that can help prevent the dangers of oxidation are exercising regularly, getting enough sleep and avoiding overeating.
Given the dangers of excessive oxidation that occur in the body, it is advisable to avoid exposure to free radicals and eat foods rich in antioxidants regularly.
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